Do people still ride the train in Canada?

How popular is train travel in Canada?

March 24, 2021

When you think of traveling or vacation, trains might not come to mind right away, but Canada has some of the most beautiful train trips in the world. When our country once again opens up to non-essential travel as a safe option, consider a voyage by train. It's an unforgettable way to relax and see the country.

Enjoy the stunning scenery in luxury with great food and service. You can choose a short trip through some of Canada’s highlights or a longer journey across the country without having to drive.

Canada’s most popular train trips

Train travel in Canada can be personalized so you get the most out of these popular trips. The train stops at beautiful destinations along the way and you can choose whichever activities are most enjoyable for you.

Across Canada

This amazing journey will show you the beautiful diversity of Canada’s cities and nature. The 13-day trip starts in Toronto and ends in Vancouver. You will have lots of time to relax on the train and opportunities to enjoy the Rockies. The VIA Rail train stops in Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff, and Kamloops. You can also travel from Vancouver to Toronto if that works better for you.

The Canadian Rockies

One of Canada’s most popular train trips is an 8-day journey across the Rocky Mountains aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. The trip goes from Vancouver to Calgary through Kamloops, Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff and can also be done going in the opposite direction.

The Rockies and Whistler

This popular train trip on the Rocky Mountaineer is full of beautiful sights and takes 9 days, starting in Vancouver and ending in Calgary. The train stops in Whistler, Quesnel, Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff. This trip can start in Calgary and end in Vancouver.

The Polar Bear Express

If you are looking for a shorter train adventure, the Polar Bear Express travels between Moosonee and Cochrane over about 5 hours and will show you the wild scenery of Northern Ontario from the comfort of a viewing dome car or dining car. You might even see some polar bears in Cochrane’s Polar Bear Habitat.

The Ocean

This 24-hour train trip from Montreal to Halifax will take you along the Atlantic coast. The VIA Rail train leaves Montreal in the evening and the next day you will see the towns and shorelines of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. You can choose from economy or a sleeper car and take in the scenery from the dome car.

The White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad

The White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad train trip departs from Skagway, Alaska and ends in Yukon Territory. You can travel along Lake Bennett and go on a self-guided tour of Bennett Station or stop at the museum in this historic gold rush town.

Victoria, Vancouver, and Seattle

You can venture on an amazing journey from Victoria through Vancouver to our neighbors to the south in Seattle. Not only will you enjoy the natural beauty of the West Coast, you will also experience its urban centres and will find plenty of exciting activities to do over this 7-day train trip.

Niagara Falls and New York

This scenic 11-day train trip goes from New York to Niagara Falls. You can explore iconic New York City and multi-cultural Toronto, and take tours in Montreal, Quebec City, and Niagara.